It can be something of a funny thing. Of course every Aston Villa player wants to win before the opening whistle. Seemingly for Villa, each time there is a match with an uptick in stakes, there is a struggle to gain a foothold within the game, and supporters are left with the same void.
To an extent, this can become something of a self-fulfilling prophecy. The match does not go as planned; the other side somehow finds an additional gear and puts on what would be for them a masterclass, and the feeling of 'here we go again' begins to trickle throughout the pitch.
Combating this is something that is difficult to overcome. On the surface, all matches are created equal. This is the type of mentality that Unai Emery tends to employ, as is shown by his multifaceted approach in chasing results throughout all competitions. For him, each game is a standalone in significance. There is not one or another that deserves more or less attention, as each time one steps foot on the pitch, there is an opportunity to showcase and find areas of improvement.
To an extent, however, human nature will kick in. Everyone knows that 'the big one' continues to elude Villa. There tend to be two paths forward for teams that find themselves having a difficult time at this ceiling.
Either a side hopes for luck in the form of the opponent or the preparation beforehand, well before the 90 minutes ever take place, to be enhanced.
Confidence comes from knowing what to expect and with the knowledge that the other side has been outworked. These aspects in themselves can come in different forms; hence, everyone can't simply adopt this seemingly simplistic ideology.
Sustainable approach needed at Aston Villa
Regardless, to rely on fortune is simply hoping, and a well-run club cannot pin its hopes on the other team gaining an injury or facing an easier opponent through the draw.
Instead, Villa need to be ready for all scenarios.
It is the work during the July and August months, though, that can end up proving the difference in May. Emery will know what stones were left unturned last season. The Spaniard also knows the areas that will need improvement and how each of the players on the squad will be best suited to make improvements.
In terms of then winning in those big moments, it just happens when it happens. It is, however, a result of earlier efforts. Until that glass ceiling is shattered, it will be something that hangs over the club. Rest assured, Emery is putting in the work to ensure that the crowning moment does come for Villa.